Eamonn Holmes is putting a brave face on as he starts his recovery from a double hip replacement - and true to form he's keeping his fans up to date.

Wearing a blue T-shirt and tracksuit bottoms, he looks tired but determined in his hospital room as he takes his first steps with new bionic hips.

His Facebook post reads: "Post Op Day 3. On my feet. Thanks for all your good wishes and support. The fightback has begun."

Belfast-born Eamonn, 56, underwent the surgery last Thursday at a hospital in London and said he was in fighting mode for full recovery.

And he is taking inspiration from the best and posted a picture and quote from Muhammad Ali saying: "I hated every minute of training, but I said, 'Don't quit. Suffer now and live the rest of your life as a champion'."

Eamonn added: "New hips in place - now I must make sure they work. This is going to be my motto for rehab. Bring it on."

The TV anchor is at the start of a 10 week programme or physiotherapy and rest and so far, so good.

And with his usual dry humour he blamed his sorry expression on a late Chelsea goal against his beloved Man Utd leaving them with a 1-1 draw.